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1. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 11 Issue: 01 | Jan 2024 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072
© 2023, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 8.226 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 583
Review on enhancing the Geotechnical Properties of Black Cotton Soil
using Terrazyme
Prashant Gautam1, Divesh Kumar2, Tanya Sachan3, Sumit Gupta4, Er. Jyoti Swaroop Pandey5
1,2,3,4 B. Tech Students Department of Civil Engineering, Axis Institute of Technology and Management, Rooma-
Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
5Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Axis Institute of Technology and Management, Rooma-
Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Abstract - The cost, performance, durability, and time of
every project are its most crucial components. Black cotton
soil, due to its strong swelling and shrinkage qualities, also
known as expansive clay soil and regur soil, presents
considerable difficulties in building and agriculture.
Building on black cotton soil has its challenges, including
foundation and road settlement, among others. Due to the
shortcomings of conventional soil stabilizing technologies,
new ways for enhancing the engineering properties of soil
are being investigated. There is a demand for the creation of
novel techniques to enhance the geotechnical properties of
soil due to the inefficiency and high costs associated with
conventional methods. Study examines the use of terrazyme,
a state-of-the-art enzymatic soil stabilizer, to improve the
geotechnical properties of black cotton soil, optimum
moisture content, maximum dry density, liquid limit, plastic
limit, plasticity index, and CBR test, which are used for
pavement base courses, sub-base courses, and sub-grades. In
this review paper, we mix the terrazyme at the rate of
200ml/2m3, 200ml/1.5m3, and 200ml/1m3 in black cotton
soil to enhance the geotechnical properties of Black cotton
soil.
Key Words: Black Cotton Soil, Terrazyme, CBR, liquid
limit, plastic limit, plasticity index, optimum moisture
content, maximum dry density.
1. INTRODUCTION
Black cotton soil, renowned for its unique composition
and challenging geotechnical characteristics, has long
posed a significant hurdle in construction and
infrastructure development. The inherent expansiveness
and high plasticity of this soil type often lead to substantial
foundation problems, risking the stability and longevity of
structures built upon it. In recent years, however, a
groundbreaking solution has emerged in the form of
terrazyme – A natural biotechnological catalyst that holds
the promise to transform the geotechnical characteristics
of black cotton soil.
This review paper delves into the transformative journey
of harnessing terrazyme for the enhancement of
geotechnical properties in black cotton soil. Terrazyme,
derived from microbial sources, brings a novel and eco-
friendly approach to soil stabilization, presenting a
sustainable alternative to traditional chemical stabilizers.
As we navigate through the literature, we will investigate
the fundamental mechanism of terrazyme action, its
influence on soil structure and the consequent
enhancement in critical geotechnical parameters.
1.1 Objective of the Study
 Assess the current state of research and development
in the field of geotechnical engineering, specifically
focusing on the utilization of Terrazyme for improving
the properties of black cotton soil.
 Investigate the optimal dosages and treatment
durations of the Terrazyme application, aiming to
identify the most effective conditions for achieving
desired improvements in geotechnical properties.
 Terrazyme dosages to suit the specific characteristics
of various subtypes within the black cotton soil
category, recognizing that distinct variations may
demand customized treatments to achieve optimal
geotechnical improvements.
2. LITERATURE REVIEW
Priyanka Vaishnava et al. (2015) conducted a study
about the different dosages of terrazyme that were mixed
with virgin soil (Dehradun) for various lengths of time. In
this study, the result shows a noticeable improvement in
the soil’s index properties, including specific gravity,
maximum dry density, optimal moisture content, and
California bearing ratio (both soaked and unsoaked).[1]
Mahesh C Swami et al. (2019) conducted a laboratory
test and mainly focused on the plastic limit of Black cotton
soil with various dosages of terrazyme like 0.25 ml, 0.50
ml, 0.75 ml. and 1ml per 100 ml of water. These dosages
give favorable results regarding the geotechnical
properties of soils which is useful in pavement
construction including base courses, sub- base courses,
and sub-grades.[2]

2. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 11 Issue: 01 | Jan 2024 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072
© 2023, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 8.226 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 584
Abhishek Tiwari et al. (2019) research involves a series
of tests conducted on both virgin soil and terrazyme mixed
soil with various kinds of dosages like 0.5/0.75/1.5 cubic
meters of soil per 200 ml terrazyme. Remarkable
enhancements in soil engineering characteristics,
encompassing specific gravity, consistency limits,
optimum moisture content, maximum dry density,
unconfined compressive strength, swelling index, and
California Bearing Ratio (CBR) in soaked conditions,
manifest upon the incorporation of terrazyme into the soil
sample. Also, it underlines that in order for terrazyme to
have the intended benefits, the soil utilized must have at
least 10% clay content.[3]
Pala Gireesh Kumar et al. (2020) tackle these
difficulties and improvement the durability of
construction, the investigation examines a ground
enhancement method utilizing the bio enzyme. This
research added the terrazyme concentration in soil
samples. In terrazyme dosage of 0.2-0.4 ml gives an
effective and economically viable solution and also it
stands out for its eco-friendly nature.[4]
Sukhdeep Singh et al. (2020) The study involves
blending commercially obtained black cotton soil with
Terrazyme at different proportions (ranging from
250ml/2m³ to 250ml/0.5m³) and subjecting the samples
to tests during curing periods of 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days
to assess the improvement in strength. The experimental
outcomes reveal a substantial enhancement in the
strength of black cotton soil through Terrazyme
stabilization. Specifically, the unrestrained compression
strength values witnessed an increase from 40.25 to 73.33
across various Terrazyme ratios after a 28-day curing
period. Additionally, the unsoaked CBR values exhibited a
rise from 5.45 to 8.35, indicating a 53.21% improvement
at the end of the 28-day period.[5]
V. Vasiya et al. (2021) In this study, the use of
biodegradable Terrazyme in reinforcing black cotton soil,
renowned for its high plasticity, was investigated through
experimental research. Derived from vegetation through
fermentation and extraction, Terrazyme demonstrated
environmentally friendly traits, with its soluble nature in
water. Varying proportions of terrazyme were
incorporated into the soil in the study, revealing
improvements in index properties and strength
parameters. The optimal dosage was determined as 2% by
weight of dry soil, resulting in reduced Atterberg’s limits,
free swell index, and enhanced cohesion and shearing
resistance in triaxial tests.[6]
Sanna Majoor et al. (2022) studied that the
incorporation of biodegradable materials in geotechnical
engineering has proven effective in strengthening unstable
soil. These materials, derived from plant fermentation and
extraction, contribute to a reduction in void ratio,
decreased water absorption, and enhanced compaction.
Terrazyme, characterized by its natural proteins, stands
out for its environmentally friendly attributes and water
solubility, devoid of toxicity. Black cotton soil, susceptible
to high plasticity and swelling, is prone to issues such as
foundation settlement due to moisture fluctuations. This
research investigates the reinforcement of black cotton
soil with Terrazyme, assessing various proportions.
Experimental findings demonstrate enhancements in both
index properties and strength parameters, identifying an
optimal Terrazyme dosage at 2% of the dry soil weight.[7]
K. Ashok et at. (2022) studied that the optimal terrazyme
dosage, determined experimentally, ensures bio
degradability without harm to the environment. Bio-
enzymes, by reducing void spaces, minimizing water
absorption and enhancing compaction play a vital role.
Terrazyme, a non-toxic, non-flammable liquid enzyme
from vegetable extracts, expedites cationic exchange.
Stabilized black cotton soil, evaluated at different curing
periods and enzyme quantities, demonstrated increased
strength, indicating enhanced bearing capacity and
deformation resistance. [8]
3. METHODOLOGY
Methodology mainly consists of material collection. There
are various procedures that are to be involved in this
project work to make this project a successful outcome:
BLACK COTTON SOIL SAMPLING
MATERIAL COLLECTION
(TERRAZYME)
TESTS
LIQUID LIMIT
PLASTIC LIMIT
PLASTICITY INDEX
FREE SWELL INDEX
COMPACTION TEST
GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS
CALIFORNIA BEARING
RATIO (CBR)

3. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 11 Issue: 01 | Jan 2024 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072
© 2023, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 8.226 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 585
Figure 1 Flow Chart
3.1 Sample of Black Cotton Soil
The black cotton soil sample collected from Chilla Ghat
near Banda exhibits distinctive properties characteristic of
this soil type known for its high clay content, the sample
showcases a rich, dark color indicative of organic matter
accumulation. The soil's unique ability to swell when wet
and shrink when dry, commonly referred to as shrink-
swell behavior, is likely to be observed in this specimen.
Table 1 Geotechnical properties of Black Cotton Soil
TESTS RESULT
Atterberg’s Limit
Liquid Limit 55%
Plastic Limit 25.74%
Plasticity Index 29.26%
Standard Proctor Test
Maximum Dry Density 1.43g/cc
Optimum Moisture Content 20%
Bulk Density 1.62g/cc
California Bearing Ratio
Soaked 21.80 kg/cm3
3.2 Terrazyme
Terrazyme is a bio enzymatic soil stabilizer. Terrazyme is
a liquid extract from sugar molasses that improves the
engineering. Terrazyme is an alternate tool for building
roads.
Terrazyme, manufactured by Nature Plus Inc. U.S. (Under
ISO – 9002 procedures). For this project, we have ordered
the Terrazyme from Avijeet Agencies (P) Ltd, Head Office,
Chennai. These are properties which are available in their
site.
Table 2 Properties of Terrazyme
Boiling Point 212
Specific Gravity 1.000 to 1.090
Melting Point Liquid
Vapor Density 1
pH Level 4.30 to 4.60
Appearance Browns clear liquid
4. Expected Outcomes
Terrazyme is economical to use as a soil stabilizer. Since
we know that black cotton soil is an expansive soil using
terrazyme in it gives the favorable result in all
geotechnical properties. It may give good results in MDD &
OMC and also increase the CBR value of black cotton soil.
5. Future Scope
 Terrazyme soil stabilizer has a promising future in the
field of soil stabilization and erosion control.
 With its enzymatic composition, Terrazyme offers a
natural and environmentally friendly solution for
stabilizing soil and preventing erosion.
 It has the potential to be widely used in various
industries, including construction, landscaping, and
agriculture.
 As sustainability and eco-consciousness continue to
gain importance, Terrazyme’s ability to improve soil
stability while minimizing environmental impact
positions.
 Terrazyme is economical and its effects on the soil
with varying dosages and varying stabilizing duration.
REFERENCES
[1] Venika Saini1, and Priyanka Vaishnava, (2015) “Soil
Stabilization by using Terrazyme Journal-IJAET ISSN:
22311963, vol 8, issue 4, pp 566-573”.
[2] Jagtap Balaji A., Awale Rohit D., Satpute Shrikrushna
M., Giri Krishna H., Mahesh C Swami, (2019) “Stabilization
of Black Cotton Soil using Terrazyme Journal- JETIR ISSN-
2349-5162, Volume 6, Issue 4”.
[3] Abhishek Tiwari, J.K. Sharma, V. Garg, (2019)
“Stabilization of Expansive Soil using Terrazyme
Conference Paper- Proceedings of the Indian Geotechnical
Conference pp 113-125”.
[4] Pala Gireesh kumar, Nagubandi Madhunika, Yakkala
Sindhura, Saladi Dwarakamai, Addanki Praneetha,
Talapanti Harika Sravani and Puchakayala Sridevi, (2020)
RESULT AND CALCULATION
CONCLUSION

4. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 11 Issue: 01 | Jan 2024 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072
© 2023, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 8.226 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 586
“An Experimental Investigation on Soil Stabilization using
Terrazyme Journal- IOP Conf. Series: Materials Science and
Engineering doi, :10.1088/1757-899X/1006/1/012023”.
[5] Tajamul Farooq, Er. Sukhdeep Singh (2020)
“Stabilization of Black Cotton Soil by using Bio-Enzymes
for Pavement Construction Journal- IJSDR ISSN: 2455-
2631, Volume 5, Issue 7”.
[6] V. Vasiya, C. H. Solnki (2021) “An Experimental
Investigation on Black Cotton Soil using Terrazyme
Journal- IJE TRANSACTIONS B: Applications Vol. 34, No.
08, pp 1837-1844”.
[7] Sanna Manzoor, Anuj Sachar (2022) “Stabilization of
Black Cotton Soil using Terrazyme and Rice Husk Ash
Journal-IJIRCST ISSN:2347-5552, Volume-10, Issue-3”.
[8] Mr.K.Ashok, G.C.K.Kishore, M.Akhila, P.Emmanual,
T.Lokesh(2022) Stabilization of Black Cotton Soil by using
Terrazyme- IIJTRE ISSN: 2347 – 4718, Volume 9, Issue 10”.